About FTA

Football Technique Australia (FTA) is a Melbourne based football program that has a specific focus on improving individual technique, skill & football intelligence. FTA conducts programs for boys and girls from the ages of 6 to 16.

FTA Vision & Philosophy

FTA believes in a step by step development process that provides young footballers with a unique opportunity to develop and master the necessary technical skills possessed by elite footballers. FTA's football programs provide structured technical development and possession based football that distinguishes our approach from normal club football. We have a clear vision in the type of player we wish to produce and believe that in providing this type of concentrated training, we guide players to improve individual skill, technique, decision-making and tactical awareness.

FTA Mission Statement

"To create a positive environment whereby players are educated and taught to express themselves, achieve their maximum potential and master the technical skills of the World Game to become an elite player."

Our Aim

Develop individual technique, skill and tactical awareness.

Guide players to be composed on the ball in tight areas under pressure.

Encourage progression through ability and age.

Remove the pressure to 'win at all costs'.

Accept mistakes as part of the learning process, encourage players to learn from their mistakes.

Encourage players to be creative and innovative all over the park.

Maximise the footballer's mental development.

Support players to take risks and play with no fear.

Incorporate elements such as 'minimal structure' and 'free-play'.

FTA Coaches

All trainers at FTA hold a working with children's check and have a passion for youth development.

Ljuban Palinic

Ljuban (Lewis) Palinic currently completing his AFC 'A' Licence. Ljuban has worked with various professional youth coaches and has previously been both Youth Coach and Technical Director of NPL club Dandneong City SC. Ljuban has also been the assistant coach at Bentleigh Greens SC with the senior team. Currently, he is the U15s Melbourne Victory FC Head coach.

Lucas Gugliandolo

Lucas Gugliandolo is a passionate and enthusiastic coach who is always looking to bring the best out of each player. His ability to build relationships with his students and improve them technically to believe in themselves is second to none. Lucas has worked with the Torino Academy as a footballer and played at a high level with quality coaches most of his career. Lucas brings a large amount of experience to the team.

Carlos Alberto

Carlos holds a Brazilian Pro Licence and has a wealth of experience in coaching both futsal, as former Victorian state director of Futsal for AFA, and outdoor football. He has also been the senior coach at Nike Chance Academy. Carlos has been an A League Football Scout for Adelaide United and Wellington Phoenix.

Stjepan Gal (GK coach)

Stjepan comes to FTA with a great level of Goal keeping experience and is a passionate goal keeper coach who loves working with young keepers and passing on his knowledge for players to improve their game. Stjepan has played at the highest state league level in Victoria including football clubs Port Melbourne, St. Albans Saints & Richmond.